§ Mr. Gummerasked the Secretary of State for Energy when he expects the Central Electricity Generating Board to announce its plans for the siting of the next series of nuclear power stations.
388W
§ Mr. David HowellThe CEGB is considering a number of sites to assess their potential for nuclear power stations but any announcement about its intentions is a matter for the Board to decide.
§ Mr. Patrick McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the safety record of the existing nuclear power stations; and if he will publish details of any fatal accidents which have taken place since the first station came into operation.
§ Mr. David HowellThe safety record of nuclear power stations in England and Wales is and has been throughout the period of their operation an excellent one. I am satisfied that continuing effort on safety is being maintained.
Three fatal accidents have occurred in CEGB nuclear power stations since they started operating in 1962. These have been due to non-nuclear causes; two involved falls and the third, scalding by steam. They were reported by the CEGB to the Health and Safety Executive.
Power stations in Scotland are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.
§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will list the sites under consideration as possible locations for further nuclear power stations in Wales.
§ Mr. David HowellThe Central Electricity Generating Board has applied to renew planning permissinn for an advanced gas-cooled reactor power station at Portskewett, Gwent. No other 389W sites in Wales are currently under consideration for early development.